Inert ied training kits

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are embodiments of simulated explosive materials and Threat Screening Kits and simulated IED Circuit Kits including simulated explosive materials. The simulated explosive materials are configured to produce an output signal consistent with the presence of an actual explosive material when scanned in an X-ray scanner.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §121 as a division ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/334,997, titled “INERT IED TRAININGKITS, filed on Jul. 18, 2014, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C.§119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/931,456, titled“INERT IED TRAINING KITS,” filed on Jan. 24, 2014, and to U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/857,531, titled “INERT IED TRAININGKITS,” filed on Jul. 23, 2013, each of which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

Aspects and embodiments of the present invention are generally directedto inert materials and apparatus which simulate the look, feel, and/orX-ray response of explosive materials or devices such as improvisedexplosive devices (IEDs) or other potentially harmful devices. The inertmaterials and apparatus may be utilized for training of persons toidentify actual harmful devices or testing X-ray devices and otherinstruments.

2. Discussion of Related Art

In numerous locations, most notably airports and other transportationhubs, packages, for example, passenger luggage may be screened for thepresence of explosives, improvised explosive devices, or otherpotentially harmful devices. The screening process is often accomplishedby the use of X-ray scanners. X-ray scanners may identify explosivematerials by the density of the material and/or the effective atomicnumber (Z_(eff)).

The two mechanisms primarily responsible for X-Ray attenuation at theenergy levels typically utilized by explosive detection equipment arephotoelectric absorption and Compton scattering. The photoelectriceffect attenuates X-Ray transmission by absorption of incident X-Rayphotons and resultant emission of a photoelectron and correspondingX-Ray. Compton scattering attenuates X-Ray transmission by inelasticscattering of incident X-Ray photons, resulting in a recoil electron andan emitted photon with lower energy. The attenuation of transmittedX-Rays is dominated by the photoelectric effect for elements with highatomic numbers whereas the attenuation by Compton scattering is dominantfor elements with lower atomic numbers.

Compared to the photoelectric effect, the attenuation due to Comptonscattering is relatively invariant with respect to incident X-Rayenergy. Thus, detectors utilizing multi-energy X-Rays can distinguishmaterials of different atomic numbers based on the relativecontributions of Compton scattering and photoelectric absorption on theoverall absorption. Additional information about the density of thematerial may be inferred from the absorption of the high energy photons.In contrast with lower energy X-Rays, the absorption of high energyX-Rays are primarily due to Compton scattering which is roughlyproportional to mass per cross sectional area. Algorithms may be put inplace to automatically discriminate between materials which sharecharacteristics (effective atomic number and density) with explosivematerials and those that do not, thereby aiding in the detection. TheseX-ray scanners may sound an alarm or otherwise provide an indication ofthe suspected explosive material so that a trained agent may make afurther investigation and respond accordingly. The X-ray scanners mayidentify different suspected explosive materials by different colors ona display.

SUMMARY

In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, there isprovided a simulated explosive material. The simulated explosivematerial comprises or consists of one or more inert components that hasa density and effective atomic number (Z_(eff)) substantially similar toan explosive material. The simulated explosive material is configured toproduce an output signal consistent with the presence of the explosivematerial when scanned in an X-ray scanner.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include brownsugar.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include a mixtureof brown sugar and one or more of corn syrup, baking soda, water, oroil. The simulated explosive material may be configured to produce anoutput signal consistent with the presence of dynamite when scanned inan X-ray scanner.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include a mixtureof confectioner sugar and one or more of corn starch or corn syrup. Thesimulated explosive material may be configured to produce an outputsignal consistent with the presence of one of dynamite or PE-4 whenscanned in an X-ray scanner.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include a mixtureof baking soda and one or more of corn syrup, corn starch, water, oil,or paraffin wax. The simulated explosive material may be configured toproduce an output signal consistent with the presence of one of Semtex,C-4, TNT, or a plastic explosive when scanned in an X-ray scanner.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include a mixtureof corn starch, baking soda, water, and oil. The simulated explosivematerial may be configured to produce an output signal consistent withthe presence of a plastic explosive when scanned in an X-ray scanner.

The simulated explosive material may be configured to produce an outputsignal consistent with the presence of one of PE-4, TNT, nitroglycerine,or C-4 when scanned in an X-ray scanner.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include canesugar.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include one ofblack sand or charcoal.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include a mixtureof polymeric materials of varying molecular weights. These materials mayinclude but are not limited to polyethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene,polydimethylsiloxane, polyvinylchloride and, polyvinyl acetate. Thesimulated explosive material may be configured to produce an outputsignal consistent with the presence of a variety of explosives whenscanned in an X-Ray scanner.

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include a mixtureof glycerin, corn starch, alumina, hydrogen peroxide. In someembodiments, the one or more inert components further includes acolorant, for example food coloring or paint. In some embodiments, theone or more inert components include a mixture of water, charcoal,sodium chloride (NaCl) and calcium chloride (CaCl₂).

In some embodiments, the one or more inert components include a mixtureof oxides and/or nitrides. These materials may include but are notlimited to Boron Oxide, Aluminum Oxide, Silicon Oxide, aluminosilicates,Boron Nitride, Carbon Nitride, and/or other organic or inorganic ceramicmaterials. The simulated explosive material may be configured to producean output signal consistent with the presence of a variety of explosiveswhen scanned in an X-Ray scanner.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, there isprovided a simulated IED Circuit Kit. The simulated IED circuit Kitcomprises an explosive simulant comprising or consisting of one or moreinert components and having a density and/or Z_(eff) substantiallysimilar to an explosive material, a simulated blasting cap adjacent tothe explosive simulant, a trigger switch, and a power source.

In some embodiments, the trigger switch includes one or more of amousetrap switch, a clothespin switch, a wireless doorbell receiver, avibration switch, a reed switch, a dummy cell phone, a two-way radio, acordless telephone, a passive infrared receiver, a pair of saw blades, apressure activated micro switch, a tilt switch, a mercury switch, adigital clock, a mechanical clock, a kitchen timer, a servo motor, atemperature switch, a photo cell, or a wire loop switch.

In some embodiments, the explosive simulant includes one of a mixture ofbrown sugar and one or more of corn syrup, baking soda, water, and oil,a mixture of baking soda and one or more of corn syrup, corn starch,water, oil, and paraffin wax, a mixture of confectioner sugar and one ormore of corn starch and corn syrup, a mixture of glycerin, corn starch,alumina, and hydrogen peroxide, a mixture of corn starch, baking soda,water, and oil, and a mixture corn starch, water, and oil.

In some embodiments, the explosive simulant includes one of brown sugarand cane sugar.

In some embodiments, the explosive simulant includes one of black sandor charcoal.

In some embodiments, the simulated IED Circuit Kit further comprises anarming switch in electrical communication between the power source andthe simulated blasting cap.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, there isprovided a simulated blasting cap. The simulated blasting cap comprisesa tube and an explosive simulant disposed within the tube. The explosivesimulant comprises or consists of one or more inert components having adensity and/or Z_(eff) substantially similar to an explosive material.The simulated blasting cap further comprises a bridge wire disposedwithin the tube.

In some embodiments, the explosive simulant may include a wooden dowelor a polymer, such as PTFE, rod.

In some embodiments, the simulated blasting cap further comprises ametal sleeve disposed within the tube.

In some embodiments, the simulated blasting cap further comprises a leadwire disposed within the tube.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, there isprovided a Threat Screening Kit. The Threat Screening Kit comprises asimulated blasting cap including an explosive simulant, a power source,and a trigger mechanism in electrical communication between thesimulated blasting cap and the power source.

In some embodiments, the simulated blasting cap includes a metal sleevedisposed within a tube.

In some embodiments, the simulated blasting cap includes a lead wiredisposed within a tube.

In some embodiments, the trigger mechanism includes one or more of amousetrap switch, a clothespin switch, a wireless doorbell receiver, avibration switch, a reed switch, a cell phone dummy, a two-way radio, acordless telephone, a passive infrared receiver, a pair of saw blades, apressure activated micro switch, a tilt switch, a mercury switch, adigital clock, a mechanical clock, a kitchen timer, a servo motor, atemperature switch, a photo cell, and a wire loop switch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In thedrawings, each identical or nearly identical component that isillustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. Forpurposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in everydrawing. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates the components of an embodiment of a simulated IEDCircuit Kit;

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a package for an explosive simulant;

FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of a label for a package including anexplosive simulant;

FIG. 3B illustrates an embodiment of a label for a package including anexplosive simulant;

FIG. 3C illustrates an embodiment of a label for a package including anexplosive simulant;

FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 4B illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 5A illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 5B illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 17 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 21 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 22 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 24 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 25 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit;

FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated blasting cap;

FIG. 29 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated blasting cap;

FIG. 30 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated blasting cap;

FIG. 31 illustrates an embodiment of a simulated blasting cap;

FIG. 32 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 33 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 34 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 35 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 36 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 37 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 38 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 39 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 40 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 41 illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 42A illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 42B illustrates an embodiment of a Threat Screening Kit;

FIG. 43 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 44 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 45 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 46 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 47 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 48 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 49A illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 49B illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 50 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 51 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 52A illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 52B illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 53 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 54 illustrates an embodiment of a Mail Threat Kit;

FIG. 55 illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 56A illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 56B illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 57 illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 58 illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 59A illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 59B illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 60A illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 60B illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 61 illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly;

FIG. 62 illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly; and

FIG. 63 illustrates an embodiment of an explosive simulant assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects and embodiments of the present invention are not limited to thedetails of construction and the arrangement of components set forth inthe following description or illustrated in the drawings. The inventionis capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of beingcarried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology usedherein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded aslimiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing,”“involving,” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass theitems listed thereafter and equivalents thereof.

It has been discovered that many explosive materials may be simulated byone or more non-explosive and inert materials or mixtures thereof, whichin some instances may be sufficiently harmless to not require a materialsafety data sheet (MSDS) when provided by a supplier to a customer.These inert material mixtures may have densities and/or Z_(eff)sufficiently close to the explosive material which they simulate so thatan X-ray scanner may produce an output signal consistent with thepresence of the simulated explosive material when scanning the inertmaterial. Many X-ray scanners provide a standardized set of colorscategorizing materials of different effective atomic numbers. The inertmaterials may be designed to cause an X-ray scanner to classify theinert material mixtures with the same colors as the explosive materialswhich they are intended to simulate. The inert material mixtures mayalso be used to simulate explosive materials in other forms of scanners,for example, backscattering or computed tomography scanner systems.These inert material mixtures may also be colored, for example, by theaddition of food coloring, and textured in a similar manner as theexplosive material which they are intended to simulate. Examples ofvarious inert materials and material mixtures and the explosivematerials which they may simulate are listed in Table 1 below:

TABLE 1 Density Explosive name Abbreviation Z_(eff) (g/cm³) SimulantMaterial(s) ANFO ANFO ~7 0.8 Low grade Ammonium Nitrate (AN) withPolydimethylsiloxane PDMS and food coloring Hexamethylene triperoxideHMTD 7.0 0.88 HMTD Simulant diamine Amonium Nitrate AN 7.4 0.9 Low gradeAN Ammonium Nitrate Dynamite 1.02 Dark Brown Sugar NitroglycerinDynamite Kinestick Binary 1.1 Nitromethene NM 7.4 1.13 Sugar, Salt andWater Sensitized Nitromethane PLX 7.3 1.13 PLX Simulant (95%Nitromethane, 5% EDA) Hydrogen Peroxide (30%) 7.6 1.13 Hydrogen PeroxideSimulant Methyl Ethyl Ketone Peroxide MEKP 6.7 1.17 Sugar, Salt andWater Acetone Peroxide AP or TATP 6.7 1.18 TAPT simulant NitrocelluloseNC 7.1 1.2 Apcogel B-1 ® (Semi-Gel) Dynamite 1.26 Dark Brown Sugar ExtraGelatin Nitroglycerin Dynamite 1.3 Dynamite Semtex 1A SEMTEX 7.1 1.42Baking Soda, Corn Starch, Paraffin Semtex 1H SEMTEX 7.4 1.43 Wax, Water,and Vegetable Oil or Semtex 10 SEMTEX 7.3 1.43 Corn Starch, Baking Soda,Basic 60% Extra Gelatin Dynamite 1.43 initiator, and glycerin Detasheet7.0 1.41 Acrylic polymer blend of various Primasheet 1000 7.1 1.44Acrylate monomers and Baking FLEX X M118 7.1 1.44 Soda Nitroglycol EGDN7.4 1.48 Sugar, Salt and Water PE-4 PE-4 7.4 1.5 Baking Soda, CornStarch, Wax, Water, and Oil or Corn Starch, Baking Soda, Basic initiatorand glycerin Ethyl picrate 7.0 1.55 Baking Soda, Corn Starch, Wax,TNT/RDX Booster Booster 1.56 Water, and Oil Methyl picrate 7.1 1.57Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powder detergent and Glycerin Urea nitrate UN7.3 1.59 Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powder detergent and GlycerinNitroglycerine NG 7.4 1.59 Sugar, Salt and Water 1,3,5-TrinitrobenzeneTNB 7.1 1.6 Sugar, Salt and Water or Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powderdetergent and Glycerin, depending on phase Trinitrotoluene TNT 7.1 1.6Baking Soda, Corn Starch, Wax, Water, and Oil Ammonium Picrate Dunnite7.1 1.72 Baking Soda, Corn Starch, Wax, Water, and Oil ErythritolTetranitrate ETN 7.5 1.6 Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powder detergent andGlycerin Primasheet 2000 7.1 1.62 Acrylic polymer blend and Baking SodaTrinitrocresol 7.1 1.62 Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powder detergent andGlycerin Composition #4 C-4 C-4 7.5 1.64 Baking Soda, Corn Starch, Wax,Water, and Oil or Corn Starch, Baking Soda, Basic initiator (a Chemicalthat initiates base catalyzed polymerization,) and glycerinEthylenedinitramine EDNA 7.1 1.65 Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powderdetergent and Glycerin Picric acid TNP 7.2 1.7 Polyethylene, BakingSoda, Powder detergent and Glycerin Pentaerythritoltetranitrate PETN 7.41.7 PETN Simulant Nitroguanidine NQ 7.1 1.7 Polyethylene, Baking Soda,Powder detergent and Glycerin Tetryl 7.2 1.71 Baking Soda, Corn Starch,Wax, Water, and Oil 1,3,5-Triazido-2,4,6- TATNB 7.1 1.71 Polyethylene,Baking Soda, Powder trinitrobenzene detergent and GlycerinTrinitroaniline TNA 7.1 1.72 Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powder detergentand Glycerin Comp B TNT/RDX/wax Comp B 7.3 1.72 Baking Soda, CornStarch, Wax, Water, and Oil or Corn Starch, Baking Soda, Basicinitiator, and glycerin Mannitol hexanitrate MHN 7.5 1.73 Polyethylene,Baking Soda, Powder detergent and Glycerin Picryl chloride 9.9 1.74Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powder detergent and GlycerinCyclotrimethylenetrinitramine RDX 7.6 1.76 RDX SimulantTriaminotrinitrobenzene TATB 7.1 1.8 Polyethylene, Baking Soda, Powderdetergent and Glycerin Cyclotetramethylene- HMX 7.2 1.91 Polyethylene,Baking Soda, Powder tetranitramine detergent and GlycerinHexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane HNIW or CL- 7.3 2.04 Polyethylene, BakingSoda, Powder 20 detergent and Glycerin Potassium Chlorate 15.5 2.34Sodium and potassium chloride Aluminum metal 13 2.7 Various metal oxidesLead styphnate 59.9 3.02 Lead Silver azide 41.1 4 Mercury fulminate 69.24.42 Lead azide 71.1 4.71

Table 1 lists the densities and effective atomic numbers of variousexplosive materials with the corresponding abbreviations and variousproducts using these materials. Examples of inert materials and inertmaterial mixtures which may be used to simulate the explosive materials,for example, by closely matching their densities and/or effective atomicnumbers (Z_(eff)) are listed in the rightmost column. In someembodiments, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) may be included as anadditional ingredient in one or more of the formulations listed above.The BHT may function as a preservative for the materials included in oneor more of the formulations listed above. Further, coloring agents, forexample, food coloring, may be added to various of the formulationslisted above so that the inert materials and/or inert material mixturesmay closely match both the look and feel of an explosive material whichthey are intended to mimic.

Z_(eff) may be calculated according to the formula

$Z_{eff} = {\sum\limits_{i}\left( {\alpha_{i} \cdot Z_{i}^{n - 1}} \right)^{\frac{1}{n - 1}}}$

where Z_(i) is the atomic number of element i, α_(i) is the fraction ofthe total electrons contained by element i and n is a weighting factorequal to, for example, 3.9. Some references may utilize slightlydifferent values of n when calculating Z_(eff) for a material or may usea different formula.

Examples

A number of simulant mixtures may be prepared. These mixtures may bepackaged in cardboard tubes, plastic tubes, vacuum sealed plastic film,or other packages. The densities of the simulant mixtures were measuredand types of explosive for which the simulant mixtures would be usefulin simulating were identified.

Mix 1A:

Dark brown sugar (e.g. Domino™ Dark Brown Sugar)Density of mixture: 1.0 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “El Blasto” dynamite simulant.

Mix 1B:

Dark brown sugar (e.g. Domino™ Dark Brown Sugar): 900 gCorn Syrup (e.g. Karo™ Red Label 16 oz. Light Syrup): 50 gDensity of mixture: 1.1 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “Ammonium Dynamite” simulant.

Mix 1C:

Dark brown sugar (e.g. Domino™ Dark Brown Sugar): 900 gCorn Syrup (e.g. Karo™ Red Label 16 oz. Light Syrup): 100 gDensity of mixture: 1.2 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “Nitro Dynamite” simulant.

Mix 2:

Dark brown sugar (e.g. Domino™ Dark Brown Sugar): 900 gCorn Syrup (e.g. Karo™ Red Label 16 oz. Light Syrup): 100 g

Baking Soda: 150 g

Density of mixture: 1.3 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “Extra Gelatin” dynamite simulant.

Mix 3:

Confectioner sugar (e.g. Domino™ Confectioner Sugar): 2 poundsCorn syrup (e.g. Karo™ Red Label 16 oz. Light Syrup): 1.5 cupsDensity of mixture: 1.5 g/ccDensity of mixture in plastic packaging: 1.5 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “M1 Military Dynamite” simulant.

Mix 4: Water: 200 ml Charcoal: 200 g NaCl: 65 g CaCl₂: 35 g

This mixture is useful for simulating black powder.

Mix 5A: Glycerine: 200 g

Corn starch: 200 g

Alumina: 140 g

Hydrogen peroxide: 80 g (Do not measure out, squirt directly from bottleinto mixer)Orange paint (for example, Oil based paint or pigments): 10 gDensity of mixture: 1.4 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “Semtex-H” simulant.

Mix 5B: Glycerin: 200 g

Corn starch: 200 g

Alumina: 130 g

Hydrogen peroxide: 80 g (Do not measure out, squirt directly from bottleinto mixer)Black paint (for example, Oil based paint or pigments): 10 gDensity of mixture: 1.4 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “Semtex-10” simulant

Mix 5C: Glycerin: 200 g

Corn starch: 200 g

Alumina: 120 g

Hydrogen peroxide: 80 g (Do not measure out, squirt directly from bottleinto mixer)Red paint (for example, Oil based paint or pigments): 10 gDensity of mixture: 1.4 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “Semtex-1A” simulant

Mix 6: Glycerin: 200 g

Corn starch: 200 g

Alumina: 190 g

Hydrogen peroxide: 80 g (Do not measure out, squirt directly from bottleinto mixer)Density of mixture: 1.6 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “C4,” and “M112 C4” simulants.

Mix 7:

Baking Soda: 4.5 cupsWater: 1 tablespoon

Vegetable oil: 1 cup

Paraffin wax: 2 blocks (32 oz.)20 drops yellow food coloringDensity of mixture: 1.5 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “Cast TNT” simulant.

Mix 8:

Baking Soda: 4.5 cupsWater: 1 tablespoon

Vegetable oil: 1 cup

Paraffin wax: 2 blocks (32 oz.)20 drops yellow food coloringCorn starch: 1.5 cupsDensity of mixture: 1.48 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “PE 4” and “TNT Cast Booster” simulants.

Mix 9:

Baking Soda: 3 cupsParaffin wax: 2 blocks (32 oz.)Density of mixture: 1.48 g/ccThis mixture is useful for the “PE 4” and “TNT Cast Booster” simulants.

Mix 10:

Baking Soda: 2 cups

Corn Starch: 1 cup

Water: 1.5 cupsVegetable oil: 1 tablespoonDensity of mixture: 1.40 g/ccPacked in cardboard tube with eight inch length, 1.5 inch diameter, 0.08inch wall thickness.Density of mixture and cardboard tube: 1.57 g/ccThis mixture in the cardboard tube is useful for simulating plasticexplosives.

Mix 11:

Baking soda: 2 cupsCorn starch: 2 cup

Water: 1 cup Vegetable oil: 0.5 cup

Density of mixture: 1.5 g/ccPacked in cardboard tube with eight inch length, 1.5 inch diameter, 0.08inch wall thickness.Density of mixture and cardboard tube: 1.6 g/ccThis mixture in the cardboard tube is useful for simulating plasticexplosives.

Mix 12:

Confectioner sugar (e.g. Domino™ Confectioner Sugar): 2 cupsCorn syrup: 1 cupVegetable oil spray (to coat outside to reduce stickiness)Density of mixture: 1.4 g/ccPacked in cardboard tube with five inch length, 1.5 inch diameter, 0.08inch wall thickness.Density of mixture and cardboard tube: 1.5 g/ccThis mixture in the cardboard tube is useful for simulating PE-4 stickand sheet explosive.

Mix 13: Corn Starch: 1 cup

Magnesium Citrate Powder: 2 cupsBaking soda: 0.25 cupsWater: 1.5 cups water

Vegetable Oil: 2 Tablespoons

Density of mixture: 1.20 g/ccPacked in cardboard tube with eight inch length, 1.5 inch diameter, 0.08inch wall thickness.Density of mixture and cardboard tube: 1.33 g/ccThis mixture in the cardboard tube is useful for simulating plasticexplosives.

Mix 14:

Dark brown sugarDensity of mixture: 0.86 g/ccPacked in cardboard tube with eight inch length, 1.5 inch diameter, 0.08inch wall thickness.Density of compressed mixture and cardboard tube: 1.22 g/ccDensity of non-compressed mixture and cardboard tube: 1.15 g/ccThis mixture in the cardboard tube is useful for simulating dynamite

Mix 15:

Pure Cane sugarDensity of mixture: 0.74 g/ccPacked in cardboard tube with eight inch length, 1.5 inch diameter, 0.08inch wall thickness.Density of compressed mixture and cardboard tube: 1.11 g/ccDensity of non-compressed mixture and cardboard tube: 1.04 g/ccThis mixture in the cardboard tube is useful for simulating dynamite.

Mix 16: Dry Magnesium Citrate Powder

Density of mixture: 1.12 g/ccPacked in cardboard tube with eight inch length, 1.5 inch diameter, 0.08inch wall thickness.Density of compressed mixture and cardboard tube: 1.12 g/ccDensity of non-compressed mixture and cardboard tube: 1.08 g/ccThis mixture in the cardboard tube is useful for simulating dynamite.

TATP Simulant: Polyethylene Powder: 800 g Granulated Cane Sugar: 400 g99% Glycerin: 110 g Borax: 200 g HMTD Simulant: Polyethylene Powder: 600g Baking Soda: 250 g 99% Glycerin: 81 g Borax: 150 g PETN Simulant:Polyethylene Powder: 200 g Granulated Cane Sugar: 600 g 99% Glycerin: 60g Borax: 575 g Baking Soda: 50 g RDX Simulant: Polyethylene Powder: 50 gGranulated Cane Sugar: 500 g 99% Glycerin: 60 g Borax: 700 g BakingSoda: 150 g Hydrogen Peroxide (30%) Simulant: 75% Water 20% Cane Sugar5% Sodium Chloride Blue Highlighter Fluid PLX Simulant: 62% Water 31%Cane Sugar 4% Sodium Chloride 2% Corn Syrup

The densities of various explosive simulating materials and mixtures maybe adjusted to more closely conform to a density of a particularexplosive. For example, when dark brown sugar or confectioner sugar isused in the simulant, the sugar may be compressed to a particularpacking density needed to achieve a desired density in a container inwhich it is supplied. Mixtures of materials including water and oil maybe adjusted in density by varying the amount of water versus oil or byusing different oils. For example, a mixture of one cup corn starch, twocups baking soda, and one tablespoon vegetable oil will provide amixture with a density of about 1.4 g/cc. By increasing the amount ofoil by 0.5 cups and reducing the amount of water by 0.5 cups the densityof the mixture may be increased to about 1.6 g/cc. Further variations ofthe oil and water mixtures can achieve varying densities in a range offrom about 1.4 g/cc to about 1.6 g/cc. The corn starch/water/oil mixturemay be formed from a mixture of 1.5 cups water, one cup corn starch andone tablespoon of vegetable oil to provide a density of about 1.6 g/cc.In another example, the density of the clay may be adjusted by adjustingits water content or by selecting different types of clay.

In some embodiments, the various explosive simulating materials andmixtures may be hermetically sealed in a package to reduce the potentialfor water vapor to enter or exit the material, which could alter itsdensity. In some embodiments, the explosive simulating materials andmixtures may be vacuum sealed in a plastic film having a low water vaportransmission rate, for example, a polyester, polypropylene, orpolychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE) film. In some embodiments, theplastic film may be metalized to further reduce its water vaportransmission rate.

In accordance with a first broad aspect disclosed herein, one or moreexplosive simulants may be utilized in a simulated IED Circuit Kit. Thecomponents of an embodiment of a simulated IED Circuit Kit 100 areillustrated in FIG. 1. The simulated IED Circuit Kit 100 may include asubstrate board 110 on which other components are mounted. The substrateboard 110 may be formed from cardboard, a sheet of plastic, fiberboard,for example, a medium density fiberboard, wood, or any other rigid orsemi-rigid material. The various components of the simulated IED CircuitKit 100 may be non-releasably secured to the substrate board 110, forexample, with an adhesive, or may be releaseably secured to thesubstrate board 110 with releasable connectors, for example, snaps,VELCRO® hook and loop fasteners, or other fasteners or fasteningmechanisms known in the art.

An explosive simulant 120 may be mounted on the substrate board 110. Insome embodiments, the explosive simulant may be packaged inside a tube,for example, a cardboard tube 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 or a plastictube. The cardboard tube 200 or plastic tube may be filled with theexplosive simulant 120 and sealed with end caps 205, 210. The thicknessof the cardboard tube 200 or plastic tube may be selected to accommodateexplosive simulants 120 packed in the cardboard tube 200 or plastic tubeat various packing pressures to achieve desired packing densities. Insome embodiments, the thickness of the wall of the cardboard tube 200 orplastic tube is about 0.08 inches. One of the end caps, for example, endcap 210 may include a plastic tube 215 which is open on an external side215 a and closed on an internal side 215 b. The plastic tube may be usedas a cap well to retain a simulated blasting cap 130 and may havedimensions of, for example, about ⅞ inches in diameter by about 1.5inches in length. The tube 200 may also include a label 220 identifyingthe explosive material simulated and indicating that the simulant isinert. Non-limiting examples of different labels 310, 320, and 330 areillustrated in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C. The tube 200 may have dimensionsof, for example, about 1.5 inches in diameter by about eight inches inlength or by about five inches in length, although it should beunderstood that these and other dimensions of various componentsdisclosed herein are provided as examples only and may vary in differentembodiments.

Returning to FIG. 1, a simulated blasting cap 130 may be providedinserted into the explosive simulant 120 or package including theexplosive simulant 120. The simulated blasting cap 130 may include anindicator 135, for example, an incandescent light or an LED. Theindicator 135 may illuminate upon a charge being sent to the simulatedblasting cap 130 to provide an indication to a person training with thesimulated IED Circuit Kit 100 that an action the trainee has taken wouldhave resulted in the explosive simulant 120, had it been real, beingdetonated. The simulated IED Circuit Kit 100 further includes a safe andarming switch 150, and a power source 160, which may include, forexample, a battery holder and/or one or more batteries, and a firingswitch area 140 which in various embodiments may house a trigger switch.

Examples of various embodiments of the simulated IED Circuit Kit 100 areillustrated in FIGS. 4A-27. It should be appreciated that the variouscomponents illustrated in any of these embodiments may be substitutedfor one another or provided in addition to the components illustrated inother embodiments.

In FIG. 4A, the trigger switch is a mousetrap 145 and the simulant 120is a simulant for ammonium based dynamite. Electrical connection is madefrom the power source 160 to the spring of the mousetrap 145 and to abase of the mousetrap 145. The circuit is completed when anon-conductive material 145 a, for example, a piece of paper or plasticis pulled from under the spring of the mousetrap 145. FIG. 4Billustrates a similar mousetrap switch assembly as FIG. 4A, but with asimulated Semtex assembly and arming switch. It should be appreciatedthat arming switches may be included in any of the simulated IED CircuitKit 100 illustrated in FIGS. 4-27 even if not explicitly illustrated ineach example.

In FIG. 5A, the trigger switch is a spring-biased clothespin 146 and thesimulant 120 is a simulant for PE-4. Electrical connection is made fromthe power source 160 to jaws of the clothespin. The circuit is completedwhen a non-conductive material 146 a, for example, a piece of paper orplastic is pulled from between the jaws of the clothespin 146. FIG. 5Billustrates a similar clothespin switch assembly as FIG. 5A but furtherincluding an arming switch and a simulated pipe bomb.

In FIG. 6, the trigger switch is a modified receiver 147 for a wirelessdoorbell which has wires in electrical communication between a circuitthat would otherwise activate the doorbell and the simulated blastingcap 130. The simulant 120 is a simulant for military grade dynamiteCurrent is sent from the wireless doorbell receiver 147 to the simulatedblasting cap 130 upon activation of the wireless doorbell receiver 147by a transmitter 147 a.

In FIG. 7, the trigger switch is a vibration switch 148 which has wiresin electrical communication between the power source 160, a circuit inthe vibration switch 148 which closes upon detection of vibration, andthe simulated blasting cap 130.

In FIG. 8, the trigger switch is a door alarm reed switch 149 which haswires in electrical communication between the power source 160, acircuit in the door alarm reed switch 149 which closes upon activationof the switch 149, and the simulated blasting cap 130. The simulant 120is a simulant for “El-Blasto” dynamite.

In FIG. 9, the trigger switch is a modified cell phone or cell phonedummy 151 which has wires in electrical communication between thesimulated blasting cap 130 and a circuit that would otherwise active,for example, a ringer of the cell phone 151. The simulant 120 is asimulant for “El-Blasto” dynamite.

In FIG. 10, the trigger switch is a modified two way radio 152 which haswires in electrical communication between the simulated blasting cap 130and a circuit that would otherwise activate, for example, a speaker ofthe two way radio 152 upon contact with the two way radio 152 from asecond two way radio 152 a. The simulant 120 is packed in a PVC pipe 122which may have a length of, for example, about eight inches and adiameter of, for example, about 1.25 inches or about two inches, and isfitted with end caps 122 a which may be screwed onto the ends of the PVCpipe 122 and/or glued in place onto the ends of the PVC pipe 122. ThePVC pipe 122 includes a window 170 through which an indicator light 135may be viewed. Alternatively, the PVC pipe 122 may be empty.

In FIG. 11, the trigger switch is a modified cordless telephone handset153 which has wires in electrical communication between the simulatedblasting cap 130 and a circuit that would otherwise activate, forexample, a ringer of the cordless telephone 153 upon activation of a“find phone” button 153 b on a base station 153 a of the cordlesstelephone 153. The simulant is packed in a steel pipe 124 which may havea length of, for example, about six or about eight inches and a diameterof, for example, about one inch or about 1.5 inches, and is fitted withend caps 124 a which may be screwed onto the ends of the steel pipe 124and/or glued in place onto the ends of the steel pipe 124.Alternatively, the steel pipe 124 may be empty.

In FIG. 12, the trigger switch is a passive infrared receiver (PIR) 154which has wires in electrical communication between the power source 160(internal to the PIR 154, but in alternate embodiments, external to thePIR 154), a circuit in the PIR 154 which closes upon detection ofinfrared (IR) light, and the simulated blasting cap 130. The simulant120 is a simulant for C-4 explosive.

In FIG. 13, the trigger switch is a pair of saw blades 155 in electricalcommunication between the power source 160 and the simulated blastingcap 130. The saw blades 155 may be held apart from one another by one ormore blocks of a non-conductive material 155 a. The circuit is closed,sending power to the simulated blasting cap 130, upon application ofpressure which brings the saw blades 155 into contact with one another.

In FIG. 14, the trigger switch is a pressure activated micro switch 156in electrical communication between the power source 160 and thesimulated blasting cap 130. The simulant 120 is a simulant for militarygrade dynamite.

In FIG. 15, the trigger switch is a pressure activated micro switch 157which closes a circuit between the power source 160 and the simulatedblasting cap 130 upon a release of pressure on the switch 157, forexample, by opening a box 157 a in which the switch 157 is disposed. Thesimulant 120 is a simulant for military grade dynamite.

In FIG. 16, the trigger switch is a tilt switch 158 which closes acircuit between the power source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130upon tilting of the switch 158 so that a conductive ball 158 a, forexample, an aluminum foil ball, rolls into contact with a pair ofelectrical contacts 158 b within the switch 158. The simulant 120 ispacked in a PVC pipe 126 which may have a length of, for example, eightinches and a diameter of, for example, about 1.25 inches or about twoinches, and is fitted with end caps 126 a which may be screwed onto theends of the PVC pipe 126 and/or glued in place onto the ends of the PVCpipe 126. The PVC pipe 126 includes a window 170 through which anindicator light 135 may be viewed. Alternatively, the PVC pipe 126 maybe empty.

In FIG. 17, the trigger switch is a modified digital clock 159 which haswires in electrical communication between the simulated blasting cap 130and a circuit that would otherwise activate, for example, an alarm ofthe clock 159. Alternatively, the trigger switch could be a digitalkitchen timer or other form of digital timer. The power source 160 maybe located internal or external to the digital timer. The simulant ispacked in a steel pipe 128 which may have a length of, for example,about six inches or about eight inches and a diameter of, for example,about one inch or about 1.5 inches, and is fitted with end caps 128 awhich may be screwed onto the ends of the steel pipe 128 and/or glued inplace onto the ends of the steel pipe 128. The steel pipe 128 includes awindow 170 through which an indicator light 135 may be viewed.Alternatively, the steel pipe 128 may be empty.

In FIG. 18, the trigger switch is a modified analog clock 161, forexample, a Advance Super Bell key wound alarm clock, which closes acircuit between the power source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130upon an electrical contact mounted on a hand 161 a of the clock 160reaching a second electrical contact 161 b disposed on the face of theclock 160. The simulant 120 is a simulant for “El-Blasto” dynamite.

In FIG. 19, the trigger switch is an egg timer 162 which closes acircuit between the power source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130upon an electrical contact mounted on a handle 162 a of the timer 162reaching a second electrical contact 162 b disposed on the face of thetimer. The simulant 120 is a simulant for nitro-dynamite.

In FIG. 20, the trigger switch is a vibration switch 163 which closes acircuit between the power source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130upon an electrical contact 163 a mounted on a spring 163 b coupled to awooden base 163 c contacting an electrically conductive bottle cap 163 dresponsive to vibration which causes the spring 163 b to sway. The base163 c may alternatively be made of a different material, for example, aplastic. The simulant 120 is a simulant for PE-4.

In FIG. 21, the trigger switch is a servo motor 164 mounted in, forexample, a toy car 164 b which closes a circuit between the power source160 and the simulated blasting cap 130 upon an electrical contactmounted on a portion of the servo motor 164 contacting a secondelectrical contact mounted on a second portion of the servo motor 164 orwithin a portion of the toy car 164 b. The servo motor 160 may beremotely operated by a wireless transmitter 164 a. The simulant 120 is asimulant for Semtex.

In FIG. 22, the trigger switch 165 is a temperature switch 165 a andassociated relay 165 b which closes a circuit between the power source160 and the simulated blasting cap 130 upon the temperature reaching aset point programmed into the temperature switch 165 a. The simulant 120is a simulant for Semtex.

In FIG. 23, the trigger switch is an oven temperature switch 166 whichcloses a circuit between the power source 160 and the simulant upon thetemperature reaching a point at which an electrical contact mounted to ahand 166 a of the oven temperature switch 166 contacts a secondelectrical contact 166 b mounted on the face of the oven temperatureswitch. The simulant is packed in a PVC pipe 126 which includes a window170 through which an indicator light 135 may be viewed. Alternatively,the PVC pipe 126 may be empty.

In FIG. 24, the trigger switch is a mercury switch 167 which closes acircuit between the power source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130upon tilting of the switch so that a drop of mercury 167 a rolls intocontact with a pair of electrical contacts 167 b within the switch 167.The simulant 120 is a simulant for ammonium dynamite.

In FIG. 25, the trigger switch is a photo cell 168 which closes acircuit between the power source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130upon exposure of the photo cell 168 to light. The simulant 120 is asimulant for C-4 explosive.

In FIG. 26, the trigger switch is a wire loop switch 169. A firstexposed wire 169 a passes through a loop in a second exposed wire 169 b.The second exposed wire 169 b passes through a loop in the first exposedwire 169 a. The circuit between the power source 160 and the simulatedblasting cap 130 is closed upon vibration or displacement of one of thewires 169 a, 169 b which brings the wire in contact with the loop of theother wire 169 a, 169 b. The simulant 120 is a simulant for nitrodynamite.

In FIG. 27, the trigger switch is a non-electrical blasting cap 171, forexample, det. cord. The simulant 120 is a simulant for ammoniumdynamite.

In accordance with another broad aspect disclosed herein, there isprovided embodiments of simulated blasting caps. The simulated blastingcaps are designed to look and feel substantially similar to actual“live” blasting caps and are constructed from materials which provide asubstantially similar X-ray signature as actual “live” blasting caps.

FIG. 28 illustrates a simulated homemade blasting cap 410. The simulatedhomemade blasting cap 410 includes a copper tube 415 having a length Lof about 2.25 inches and a diameter D of about 0.25 inches. A woodendowel or a polymer rod such as PTFE 420 having a length of about twoinches which simulates an explosive, for example, PETN, is disposedwithin the copper tube 415 and secured therein with, for example, anadhesive such as glue. An end 415 a of the copper tube 415 is pressedflat and retains a bridge wire 430. In some embodiments the bridge wire430 may be simulated by a portion of a small incandescent light bulb.

FIG. 29 illustrates a simulated commercial blasting cap 440. Thesimulated commercial blasting cap 440 includes an aluminum tube 455having a length L of about 2.25 inches and a diameter D of about 0.25inches. A wooden dowel or a polymer rod such as PTFE 420 having a lengthof about one inch which simulates an explosive, for example, PETN, isdisposed within the aluminum tube 455 and secured therein with, forexample, an adhesive such as glue. A metal sleeve 445 is also disposedwithin the aluminum tube 455 and simulates a protective metal sleevepresent in many commercial blasting caps. A bridge wire 430 is disposedwithin an end of the aluminum tube 455 and may be secured therein by aplastic tube 450 which may be held in place in the aluminum tube 455 byone or more crimps 460.

FIG. 30 illustrates a simulated military blasting cap 470. The simulatedmilitary blasting cap 470 includes an aluminum tube 455 having a lengthL of about 2.25 inches and a diameter D of about 0.25 inches. A woodendowel or a polymer rod such as PTFE 420 having a length of about 1.25inches which simulates an explosive, for example, PETN, is disposedwithin the aluminum tube 455 and secured therein with, for example, anadhesive such as glue. A lead wire 475 having a length of, for example,about 0.25 inches is also disposed within the aluminum tube 455 andsimulates a lead azide charge present in many military blasting caps. Abridge wire 430 is disposed within an end of the aluminum tube 455 andmay be secured therein by a plastic tube 450 which may be held in placein the aluminum tube 455 by one or more crimps 460.

FIG. 31 illustrates a simulated cardboard blasting cap 480. Thesimulated cardboard blasting cap 480 includes a cardboard tube 485having a length L of about 2.00 inches and a diameter D of about 0.25inches. Powdered sugar which simulates an explosive, for example, TATP,is disposed within the cardboard tube 485 and secured therein with, forexample, a cardboard cap 490 and adhesive such as glue. An electricmatch 495 is disposed within an end of the cardboard tube 485 and may besecured in the cardboard tube 485 by adhesive or heat shrink.

In accordance with another broad aspect disclosed herein, there isprovided embodiments of various Threat Screening Kits. The ThreatScreening Kits are designed to mimic the look and feel of “live”explosive devices or components thereof and to provide a substantiallysimilar X-ray signature as actual “live” explosive devices.

A first Threat Screening Kit 510, illustrated in FIG. 32, includes aplastic bottle 520, which is at least partially filled with an explosivesimulant, for example, black sand 120 a to simulate black powder orcharcoal 120 b to simulate smokeless powder. The plastic bottle 520 mayinclude a label 220 identifying the explosive being simulated andindicating that the simulant is inert. The label 220 may be similar toone of those illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C.

Another Threat Screening Kit 525, illustrated in FIG. 33, may include asimulated emulsion or slurry type explosive simulant 120 packaged withina substantially cylindrical vessel 530 which may be constructed of, forexample, a metal, plastic, or a flexible rubber material. The vessel 530may have a length L of, for example, about eight inches and acircumference C of about six inches. The vessel 530 may include a label220 identifying the explosive being simulated and indicating that thesimulant is inert. The label 220 may be similar to one of thoseillustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C. The vessel 530 may also include a cap well535 inserted into a portion thereof or mounted on a surface thereof tohouse a simulated blasting cap and may include a fastener 540, forexample, a sheet of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener to facilitateattaching the vessel to a substrate board 110 of a simulated IED CircuitKit 100.

FIG. 34 illustrates another Threat Screening Kit 545 which simulates ablock of C-4 explosive. The simulant used may be a mixture of cornsyrup, baking soda, water, vegetable oil, and paraffin wax packaged inpaper or plastic film. The simulated block of C-4 545 may have a lengthL of about 11 inches, a width W of about two inches, and a height H ofabout one inch, which is consistent with conventional packaging ofactual C-4 explosive blocks. The simulated block of C-4 545 may includea label 220 identifying the explosive being simulated and indicatingthat the simulant is inert. The label 220 may be similar to one of thoseillustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C. The simulated block of C-4 545 may alsoinclude a cap well 535 inserted into a portion thereof or mounted on asurface thereof to house a simulated blasting cap and may include afastener 540, for example, a sheet of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener tofacilitate attaching the simulated block of C-4 545 to a substrate board110 of a simulated IED Circuit Kit 100.

FIG. 35 illustrates another Threat Screening Kit 550 which simulates ablock of Semtex explosive. The simulant used may be a mixture of cornsyrup, baking soda, water, and oil vacuum packaged in plastic film. Thesimulated block of Semtex explosive 550 may have a length of about threeinches, a width of about three inches, and a height of about threeinches, which is consistent with conventional packaging of actual Semtexexplosive blocks. The simulated block of Semtex 550 may include a label220 identifying the explosive being simulated and indicating that thesimulant is inert. The label 220 may be similar to one of thoseillustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C. The simulated block of Semtex 550 may alsoinclude a cap well 535 inserted into a portion thereof or mounted on asurface thereof to house a simulated blasting cap and may include afastener 540, for example, a sheet of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener tofacilitate attaching the simulated block of Semtex to a substrate board110 of a simulated IED Circuit Kit 100.

FIG. 36 illustrates another Threat Screening Kit 555 which includes amotion activated sensor 145 coupled to a power source 160, for example,a battery pack and to a simulated blasting cap 130. The motion activatedsensor 145 may include a fastener 540, for example, a sheet of VELCRO®hook and loop fastener to facilitate attaching the motion activatedsensor 145 to a substrate board 110 of a simulated IED Circuit Kit 100.The components of the Threat Screening Kit 555 may be substantiallysimilar to those included in the simulated IED Circuit Kit 100illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 37 illustrates another Threat Screening Kit 560 which includes amechanical timer 162 coupled to a power source 160, for example, abattery pack and to a simulated blasting cap 130. The mechanical timer162 and/or power source 160 may include a fastener 540, for example, asheet of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener to facilitate attaching thecomponents to a substrate board 110 of a simulated IED Circuit Kit 100.The components of the Threat Screening Kit 560 may be substantiallysimilar to those included in the simulated IED Circuit Kit 100illustrated in FIG. 19.

FIG. 38 illustrates another Threat Screening Kit 565 which includes aPIR motion sensor 154 coupled to a power source 160, for example, abattery pack and to a simulated blasting cap 130. The PIR motion sensor154 and/or power source 160 may include a fastener 540, for example, asheet of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener to facilitate attaching thecomponents to a substrate board 110 of a simulated IED Circuit Kit 100.The components of the Threat Screening Kit 565 may be substantiallysimilar to those included in the simulated IED Circuit Kit 100illustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 39 illustrates another Threat Screening Kit 570 which includes aswitch 572, for example, a toggle switch coupled to a power source 160,for example, a battery pack and to a simulated blasting cap 130. Theswitch 572 and/or power source 160 may include a fastener 540, forexample, a sheet of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener to facilitateattaching the components to a substrate board 110 of a simulated IEDCircuit Kit 100.

FIG. 40 illustrates another Threat Screening Kit 575 which includes amodified battery operated digital alarm clock 159, for example, an Elginbattery powered LCD alarm clock, coupled to a power source 160, forexample, a battery pack and to a simulated blasting cap 130. The alarmclock 159 and/or power source 160 may include a fastener 540, forexample, a sheet of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener to facilitateattaching the components to a substrate board 110 of a simulated IEDCircuit Kit 100. The components of the Threat Screening Kit 575 may besubstantially similar to those included in the simulated IED Circuit Kit100 illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 41 illustrates another Threat Screening Kit 580 which includes acell phone dummy 151 coupled to a power source 160, for example, abattery pack and to a simulated blasting cap 130. The cell phone dummy151 and/or power source 160 may include a fastener 540, for example, asheet of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener to facilitate attaching thecomponents to a substrate board 110 of a simulated IED Circuit Kit 100.The components of the Threat Screening Kit 580 may be substantiallysimilar to those included in the simulated IED Circuit Kit 100illustrated in FIG. 9.

FIG. 42A illustrates Threat Screening Kit 590 a and FIG. 42B illustratesThreat Screening Kit 590 b. Threat Screening Kit 590 a includes asimulated steel pipe bomb 591 which may have a length of, for example,about six inches or about eight inches and a diameter of, for example,about one inch or about 1.5 inches, and is fitted with end caps 593which may be screwed onto the ends of the steel pipe bomb 591 and/orglued in place onto the ends of the steel pipe bomb 591. ThreatScreening Kit 590 b includes a simulated PVC pipe bomb 592 which mayhave a length of, for example, about eight inches and a diameter of, forexample, about 1.25 inches or about two inches, and is fitted with endcaps 594 which may be screwed onto the ends of the PVC pipe bomb 592and/or glued in place onto the ends of the PVC pipe bomb 592. Thesimulated pipe bombs 591, 592 may include holes 595 for the insertion ofsimulated blasting caps 130 and may either be filled with an explosivesimulant or empty. The simulated pipe bombs 591, 592 may includefasteners 540, for example, sheets of VELCRO® hook and loop fastener tofacilitate attaching the components to a substrate board 110 of asimulated IED Circuit Kit 100. The simulated pipe bombs 591, 592 mayalso include labels 220 which may be similar to one of the labelsillustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C. The simulated pipe bombs 591, 592 may alsoinclude one or more “inert holes” 596, four of which are illustrated ineach of the simulated pipe bombs 591, 592. The inert holes 596 in thesimulated pipe bombs 591, 592 make it impossible for somebody to use thesimulated pipe bombs 591, 592 as real explosive devices. If a persontried to use the simulated pipe bombs 591, 592 as real devices the holeswould allow gasses to escape from the burning explosive materialcontained therein and thus prevent a mechanical detonation. The inertholes 596 are a safety feature to ensure simulated pipe bombs 591, 592cannot be used as real explosive devices.

In accordance with another broad aspect disclosed herein, there isprovided embodiments of various Mail Threat Kits. The Mail Threat Kitsare designed to mimic the look and feel of “live” explosive devices orcomponents thereof or of other types of mail threats and to provide asubstantially similar X-ray signature as actual “live” explosive devicesor other types of mail threats. Embodiments of the Mail Threat Kits maybe used to train personnel to identify actual mail threats.

FIG. 43 illustrates a first mail threat kit 605. The mail threat kit 605includes a pressure activated micro switch 157 which closes a circuitbetween the power source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130 insertedinto an explosive simulant 120 upon a release of pressure on the switch157, for example, by opening a box (not shown) in which the switch 157is disposed. The simulant 120 is a simulant for dynamite. The componentsof the mail threat kit 605 may be similar to those of the simulated IEDCircuit Kit 100 illustrated in FIG. 15.

FIG. 44 illustrates another mail threat kit 610. The mail threat kit 610includes a mousetrap 145. Electrical connection is made from the powersource 160 to the spring of the mousetrap and to a base of the mousetrap145. The circuit between the power source 160 and a simulated blastingcap 130 inserted into an explosive simulant 120 is completed when anon-conductive material 145 a, for example a piece of paper or plasticis pulled from under the spring of the mousetrap 145. The mail threatkit 610 may be disposed within a large envelope and the material 145 amay be positioned such that a person opening the envelope would pull thematerial 145 a out, thus activating the device. The components of themail threat kit 610 may be similar to those of the simulated IED CircuitKit 100 illustrated in FIG. 4

FIG. 45 illustrates another mail threat kit 615. The mail threat kit 615includes an envelope 618, for example, a legal sized envelope with apaper filling 619 and a plurality of razor blades 617 disposed at thetop of the paper filling 619 or envelope 618. A person opening theenvelope 618 could have a finger cut by the razor blades 617. In themail threat kit 615, the razor blades 617 may be dulled to reduce thechance of someone being cut by them.

FIG. 46 illustrates another mail threat kit 620. The mail threat kit 620includes an envelope 621, for example, an A4 sized envelope, having apaper filling 622 and a small amount, for example, from about 0.5 ouncesto about one ounce of a white powder 624, for example, flour or babypowder enclosed inside the envelope 621. The white powder 624 maysimulate a powdered poison, for example, anthrax. The envelope 621 maybe provided sealed in a plastic bag 623. The plastic bag 623 is, inactual situations in which a possible mail biological threat is found, aprocedural step where the possible mail biological threat is bagged toprevent any further spread of the possible biological threat.

FIG. 47 illustrates another mail threat kit 625. Mail threat kit 625 issubstantially the same as mail threat kit 620, but the envelope 621 is alarger legal sized or padded envelope.

FIG. 48 illustrates another mail threat kit 630. The mail threat kit 630includes a shipping box 632 in which is mounted a metal pipe 634 whichmay be filled with an explosive simulant to simulate a pipe bomb and mayinclude a simulated blasting cap 130 inserted into one end. Thesimulated blasting cap 130 may be coupled to a power source 160 througha photo cell 168. Opening the box 632 allows light to reach the photocell 168 and close the circuit between the power source 160 and thesimulated pipe bomb 634. The metal pipe 634, photocell 168, and powersource 160 may be secured to internal sides of the box 632 with tape oran adhesive such as a glue to prevent these components from movingwithin the box 632.

FIGS. 49A and 49B illustrate another mail threat kit 635. The mailthreat kit 635 is created by modifying a conventional musical greetingcard 635 a. A simulated sheet explosive 639, for example, charcoal in aplastic bag, and simulated blasting cap 130 are inserted into themusical greeting card 635 a and wires 638 which power the speaker 637 ofthe conventional musical greeting card 635 a from a battery 160 on acircuit board 636 are diverted from the speaker 637 to the blasting cap130. Upon opening the modified musical greeting card, power is suppliedfrom the battery 160 to the simulated blasting cap 130.

FIG. 50 illustrates another mail threat kit 640. The mail threat kit 640includes a power source 160 electrically coupled to a simulated blastingcap 130 inserted into an explosive simulant 120, for example, a C-4explosive simulant through a wire loop switch 169 similar to thatillustrated in FIG. 26. The C-4 explosive simulant 120 may be packagedin a plastic bag. These components are disposed within a large paddedenvelope 621. One of the wires 169 a of the wire loop switch is securedto the envelope 621, for example, with tape or an adhesive. A secondwire 169 b of the wire loop switch 169 is secured to a piece of paper622 within the envelope 621, for example, with tape or an adhesive.Removal of the paper 622 from the envelope 621 causes the wires 169 a,169 b to come into contact, completing an electrical circuit between thepower source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130.

FIG. 51 illustrates another mail threat kit 645. The mail threat kit 645includes a mailing tube 646 in which is mounted a PVC pipe 637 which maybe filled with an explosive simulant to simulate a pipe bomb and mayinclude a simulated blasting cap 130 inserted into one end. Thesimulated blasting cap 130 may be coupled to a power source 160 througha wire loop switch 169. Removing the lid 649 of the mailing tube 646pulls a string or cable 648 secured to one of the wires of the wire loopswitch 169 causing the wires of the wire loop switch 169 to come intocontact and close the circuit between the power source 160 and thesimulated blasting cap 130. The PVC pipe 637, wire loop switch 169, andpower source 160 may be secured to internal sides of the mailing tube646 with tape or an adhesive such as a glue to prevent these componentsfrom moving within the mailing tube 646.

FIG. 52A illustrates another mail threat kit 650 and FIG. 52Billustrates another mail threat kit 650 a. The mail threat kits 650, 650a each include a simulated blasting cap 130 which is coupled to asimulated detonating cord (det. cord) explosive 652 and to a powersource 160 through a wire loop switch 169 in a box 651. Upon opening thebox 651, the wire loop switch 169 may be caused to close by any one ormore of the mechanisms discussed with regard to other embodimentsherein, completing a circuit between the power source 160 and thesimulating blasting cap 130. Mail threat kit 650 a differs from mailthreat kit 650 in that mail kit 650 a includes a lead sheet 654 whichmay render X-ray imaging of the mail threat kit 650 a more difficult.

FIG. 53 illustrates another mail threat kit 655. The mail threat kit 655includes a mailing box 657 in which is mounted a pair of bottles 658which may contain simulated components of a liquid binary explosive. Asimulated blasting cap 130 is placed proximate the bottles 658 andcoupled to a power source 160 through a micro switch 157. Upon openingthe box 657, the micro switch 157 would close, completing a circuitbetween the power source 160 and the simulated blasting cap 130. Thebottles 658, micro switch 157, and power source 160 may be secured tointernal sides of the mailing box 657 with tape or an adhesive such as aglue to prevent these components from moving within the mailing box 657.

FIG. 54 illustrates another mail threat kit 660. The mail threat kit 660includes a power source 160 electrically coupled to a simulated blastingcap 130 inserted into an explosive simulant 120 in a mailing box 657. Awire 661 from the power source is electrically connected to a firstlayer of aluminum foil wrap 662 wrapped about the mailing box 657. Awire 663 from the simulated blasting cap 130 is electrically connectedto a second layer of aluminum foil wrap 664 wrapped about the mailingbox 657 and separated from the first layer of aluminum foil wrap 662 bya layer of paper 665. A second layer of paper 665 may cover the secondlayer of aluminum foil wrap 664. Upon ripping the paper 665 and aluminumfoil wrapping 662, 664 about the mailing box 657, the first layer ofaluminum foil wrap 662 contacts the second layer of aluminum foil wrap664, completing a circuit between the power source 160 and the simulatedblasting cap 130.

In addition to any of the Threat Screening Kits or mail threat kitsdescribed above, threat kits may include any one or more of thecombinations of packages, explosive simulant quantities, firing circuittypes, power source types, and/or detonator types listed in Table 2below:

TABLE 2 Assembley Device Container Explosive Simulant Weight FiringPower Name and/or Concealment Simulant Range (kg) Circuit SourceDetonator Laptop IED Laptop Sheet 0.1-0.5 Internal Laptop ImprovisedCopper Batteries Blasting Cap Laptop IED Laptop HMTD 0.1-0.5 DigitalTimer Laptop Cardboard TATP Batteries Blasting Cap Stuffed AnimalStuffed animal Detonation 0.1-0.5 Non-Electrical N/A Non-Electrical CordBlasting Cap Tablet IED Tablet Sheet 0.1-0.5 Victim activated 2 AAMilitary Blasting Cap Childs Toy IED Childs Toy ANFO 0.5-1.0 Victimactivated 2 AA Military Blasting pressure switch Cap with Slide-onBooster RCIED Cell Phone Sheet 0.1-0.5 Cell Phone Internal ImprovisedCopper RCIED Blasting Cap RCIED Cell Phone PETN 0.1-0.5 Cell PhoneExternal Commercial RCIED Blasting Cap Hair Dryer IED Hair Dryer CastTNT 0.5-1.0 Victim activated 2 AA Military toggle twitch Blasting CapHome DVD Home DVD Player ANFO 0.1-0.5 Cell Phone 9 V Military BlastingPlayer IED RCIED Cap with Slide-on Booster Baby Wipe Baby Wipe Tub HMTD0.5-1.0 Wireless 4 AA Improvised Copper Tub IED Door Bell Blasting CapCan Opener IED Can Opener C-4 0.5-1.0 Victim activated 1 C Commercialpressure switch Blasting Cap Boom Box IED Boom Box C-4 1.0-2.0Barometric 2 AA Commercial Pressure Switch Blasting Cap Computer BagComputer bag PE-4 1.0-2.0 Light-Sensitive 9 V Commercial PhotocellBlasting Cap Drill IED Drill HMTD 0.5-1.0 Pressure Switch 4 AAAImprovised Copper Blasting Cap Large Suit Large Suitcase Semtex H1.0-2.0 Micro switch Lantern Commercial Case IED (Pressure BatteryBlasting Cap Release) Small Suit Small Suitcase ANAL 1.0-2.0 RCIED Cell2 D Cell Commercial Case IED Phone Trigger Blasting Cap Assembly DuffleBag IED Duffle Bag Semtex H 1.0-2.0 RCIED Radio 9 V Military BlastingCap Water Hose IED Water Hose PETN 1.0-2.0 Tilt Switch 1 AAA MilitaryBlasting Cap Tennis Shoe IED Tennis Shoe Semtex 10 0.1-0.5 Suicideswitch 9 V Improvised Copper Assembly Blasting Cap Hiking Shoe IEDHiking Shoe PETN/RDX 0.1-0.5 Time Fuse N/A Non-Electrical Blasting CapSandal Shoe IED Shoe Sandal Sheet 0.1-0.5 Time Fuse Non- Non-ElectricalElectrical Blasting Cap Belt IED Belt Sheet 0.1-0.5 Suicide switch 2 AAAMilitary Assembly Blasting Cap Cordless Cordless Hand PE-4 1.0-2.0Victim activated Internal Improvised Copper Vacuum IED Vacuum BlastingCap Knee Brace IED Knee Brace Semtex H 0.1-0.5 Suicide switch 2 AAAMilitary Assembly Blasting Cap Hand Brace IED Hand Brace HMTD 0.1-0.5Suicide switch 9 V Improvised Copper Assembly Blasting Cap Leg Brace IEDLeg Brace TATP 0.1-0.5 Suicide switch 4 AA Cardboard TATP Assembly withBlasting Cap back up RCIED Hard Case IED Hard case Extra Gelatin 1.0-2.0Digital Timer 9 V Commercial Dynamite (8) Blasting Cap Printer PrinterCartridge PETN 1.0-2.0 RCIED Cell 9 V Improvised Copper Cartridge IEDPhone Trigger Blasting Cap Assembly Portable CD CD Player C-4 0.1-0.5Victim activated 2 AA Commercial Player IED Blasting Cap ElectricElectric PETN 0.1-0.5 Victim activated Internal Cardboard TATPScrewdriver IED Screwdriver Blasting Cap Radio IED Radio C-4 0.5-1.0Victim activated 2 C Improvised Copper Blasting Cap Circular Circularsaw Ammonium 0.5-1.0 Victim activated 2 C Improvised Copper Saw IEDDynamite Blasting Cap Walking Walking Cane PETN 0.5-1.0 Victim activated1 AA Military Cane IED Blasting Cap Walker IED Walker PE-7 1.0-2.0Suicide switch 9 V Commercial in handle Blasting Cap Baseball BaseballHat Sheet 0.1-0.5 Victim activated 1 AAA Improvised Copper Hat IEDBlasting Cap Picnic Cooler Picnic Cooler Semtex H 1.0-2.0 PIR Motion 4AA Military IED Sensor Blasting Cap Jacket IED Jacket Sheet 1.0-2.0Suicide switch 4 AA Improvised in sleeve Blasting Cap Jacket IED JacketTATP 1.0-2.0 Suicide switch 2 D Commercial in pocket Blasting CapThermos IED Thermos Flake TNT 0.5-1.0 Improvised 2 AA Cardboard TATPVibration Blasting Cap Switch Briefcase IED Briefcase Semtex 10 1.0-2.0LRCT 4 AA Commercial Blasting Cap Paperback Book Paperback TNT Cast1.0-2.0 Micro switch 9 V Military Book IED Booster (Pressure BlastingCap Release) Hardcover Book Hard Cover/ Black Powder 0.1-0.5 Clothespin4 AA Electric Book IED Metal Pipe Pull Switch Match/Squib Computer PowerComputer TATP 0.1-0.5 Victim activated External Military Cord IED PowerCord Blasting Cap Tire Air Tire air pump ANFO 0.5-1.0 RCIED Cell 9 VMilitary Blasting Pump IED Phone Trigger Cap with slide-on Assemblybooster Disposable Disposable Camera TATP 0.1-0.5 digital timer 2 AACardboard TATP Camera IED Blasting Cap Digital Camera Camera digitalPE-4 0.1-0.5 Time Fuse N/A Non-Electrical IED Blasting Cap Coffee MugIED Coffee Mug HMTD 0.5-1.0 Light-Sensitive 9 V Military PhotocellBlasting Cap Neck Pillow IED Neck Pillow C-4 0.5-1.0 Digital Timer 2 AACommercial Blasting Cap Bottle of Bottle of wine Nitromethane 1.0-2.0Time Fuse N/A Non-Electrical Wine IED (PLX) Blasting Cap Back Pack/ BackPack/ ANFO 1.0-2.0 RCIED Cell 4 AA Electric Pressure Pressure CookerPhone Trigger Match/Squib Cooker IED Assembly Back pack/2 Back pack/2Black Powder 1.0-2.0 Mechanical 2 D Electric Metal Pipes IED Metal PipesTime Delay II Match/Squib Shower Bag IED Shower bag HMTD 0.5-1.0Wire-Loop Switch 2 C Cardboard TATP Blasting Cap Flashlight IEDFlashlight Extra Gelatin 0.5-1.0 Victim 2 AAA Improvised Copper Dynamiteacivated Blasting Cap Mixture Contact Lens Contact Lens Nitromethane0.5-1.0 Digital Timer 9 V Improvised Copper Cleaner IED cleaner (PLX)Blasting Cap Micro-switch Mail Box/Package Ammonium 0.5-1.0 Micro switch9 V Commercial Pressure Nitrate/Nitro- (Pressure Blasting Cap ReleaseIED Glycerin Release) Mouse-Trap Pull Mail Box/Package PE-4 0.5-1.0Mouse Trap 4 AA Military Switch IED Pull Switch Blasting Cap Metal-PipeIED Mail Box/Package Black Powder 0.5-1.0 Metal-Pipe 2 D Electric withPhotocell IED with Match/Squib Photocell Wire-Loop Mail Box/PackageSheet 0.1-0.5 Wire-Loop Switch 4 AA Military Switch IED Blasting CapClothespin Pull Mail Box/Package Black Powder 0.5-1.0 Clothespin 2 CElectric Switch IED Pull Switch Match/Squib Wire Loop with MailBox/Package Det Cord 0.5-1.0 Wire Loop with 9 V Military Lead Sheet IEDLead Sheet Blasting Cap Chemical IED Mail Box/Package Bleach/Ammonia0.5-1.0 Chemical IED 2 D Improvised Copper Blasting Cap Anti-Probe IEDMail Box/Package M112 C-4 0.5-1.0 Anti-Probe 2 D Improvised CopperBlasting Cap Barometric Mail Box/Package Semtex H 0.5-1.0 Barometric 9 VMilitary Pressure Pressure Switch Blasting Cap Switch IED Small Tool BoxSmall Tool Box PE-7 1.0-2.0 Magnetic Lantern Commercial Reed SwitchBattery Blasting Cap Tooth Paste Toothpaste tube PETN 0.1-0.5 ExternalExternal External Tube IED Women's Women's purse Extra Gelatin 1.0-2.0RCIED radio 9 V Commercial Purse IED Dynamite (4) Blasting Cap Iron IEDIron Ammonium 0.5-1.0 Victim activated 9 V Cardboard TATP Dynamitetoggle switch Blasting Cap Toy Car IED Toy car TATP 0.5-1.0 Servo SwitchInternal Cardboard TATP Blasting Cap Legal Legal binder Detonation0.1-0.5 Digital Timer 2 D Military Binder IED Cord Blasting Cap LaundryLaundry detergent Smokeless 1.0-2.0 Ball-Tilt Switch 2 AA Electricdetergent box/PVC pipe Powder Match/Squib Box/PVC pipe IED Lotion IEDLotion large Nitromethane 0.5-1.0 Ball-Tilt Switch 2 AA Commercial (PLX)Blasting Cap Small Cooler Small Cooler Semtex H 1.0-2.0 PIR Motion 4 AACardboard TATP IED Sensor Blasting Cap Foot Powder Foot Powder BottleEmulsion 0.1-0.5 Vibration Sensor 2 AA Commercial Bottle IED AssemblyBlasting Cap Hair Gel IED Hair Gel Emulsion 0.1-0.5 Anti Lift Micro 1 AAImprovised switch (Presure Blasting Cap Release) Can of Can of soda ANAL0.1-0.5 Non-Electrical N/A Improvised Soda IED Time Fuse Blasting CapPressure Pressure cooker Smokeless 1.0-2.0 RCIED Cell 4 AA ElectricCooker IED Powder Phone Trigger Match/Squib Assembly Lunch Box IED LunchBox Semtex H 0.5-1.0 Mouse Trap 2 AA Military Pull Switch Blasting CapVest with Vest frag TATP 1.0-2.0 Suicide switch 9 V Improvised Frag IEDAssembly Blasting Cap Vest without Vest no frag Sheet 1.0-2.0 Suicideswitch 2 AAA Commercial Frag IED Assembly Blasting Cap Limpet Limpetdevice Black Powder 1.0-2.0 Magnetic 1 D Electric Device IED Reed SwitchMatch/Squib

FIGS. 55-63 illustrate various explosive simulant assemblies.

FIG. 55 illustrates an inert PE-4 long assembly. This assembly includessimulant mix 9 packed within an 8 inch×1.25 inch plastic tube sealedwith end caps including cap wells. The tube is wrapped in white cardstock paper with a wax coating.

FIGS. 56A and 56B illustrate an inert PE-4 short assembly. This assemblyincludes simulant mix 9 packed within 5 inch×1.5 inch mailing tubesealed with end caps including cap wells. The tube is wrapped in whitecard stock paper with a wax coating.

FIG. 57 illustrates an inert TNT cast booster assembly. This assemblyincludes simulant mix 9 packed within 5 inch×1.5 inch mailing tubesealed with end caps. The tube is wrapped in red card stock paper with amod podge coating. The ends of the assembly are drilled with 0.25 inch×1inch holes on each end.

FIG. 58 illustrates an inert El Blasto Dynamite assembly. This assemblyincludes simulant mix 1 packed within an 8 inch×1.25 inch plastic tubesealed with end caps including cap wells. The tube is wrapped in browncard stock paper with a wax coating.

FIGS. 59A and 59B illustrate an inert nitro dynamite assembly. Thisassembly includes simulant mix 1B packed within an 8 inch×1.25 inchplastic tube sealed with end caps including cap wells. The tube iswrapped in red card stock paper with a wax coating.

FIGS. 60A and 60B illustrate an inert military M1 dynamite assembly.This assembly includes simulant mix 3 packed within an 8 inch×1.25 inchplastic tube sealed with end caps including cap wells. The tube iswrapped in brown card stock paper with a wax coating.

FIG. 61 illustrates an inert ammonium dynamite assembly. This assemblyincludes simulant mix 1A packed within an 8 inch×1.25 inch plastic tubesealed with end caps including cap wells. The tube is wrapped in yellowstock paper with a wax coating.

FIG. 62 illustrates an extra gelatin dynamite assembly. This assemblyincludes simulant mix 2 packed within an 8 inch×1.25 inch plastic tubesealed with end caps including cap wells. The tube is wrapped in brownstock paper with a wax coating.

FIG. 63 illustrates an inert Semtex assembly. The assembly includessimulant mix 5 and an orange, red, and/or black pigment molded in abaking pan form vacuum sealed and labeled.

Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of thisinvention, it is to be appreciated various alterations, modifications,and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Forexample, it is to be appreciated that any of the features of any of theembodiments disclosed herein may be combined or substituted for featuresof any other embodiment disclosed herein. Such alterations,modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of thisdisclosure, and are intended to be within the scope of the invention.Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way ofexample only.

What is claimed is:
 1. A simulated IED Circuit Kit comprising: anexplosive simulant comprising one or more inert components and having adensity substantially similar to an explosive material; a simulatedblasting cap adjacent to the explosive simulant; a trigger switch; and apower source.
 2. The simulated IED Circuit Kit of claim 1, wherein thetrigger switch includes one or more of a mousetrap switch, a clothes pinswitch, a wireless doorbell receiver, a vibration switch, a reed switch,a cell phone dummy, a two-way radio, a cordless telephone, a passiveinfrared receiver, a pair of saw blades, a pressure activated microswitch, a tilt switch, a mercury switch, a digital clock, a mechanicalclock, a kitchen timer, a servo motor, a temperature switch, a photocell, and a wire loop switch.
 3. The simulated IED Circuit Kit of claim1, wherein the explosive simulant consists essentially of three or moreinert components, the density of the simulated explosive material beingwithin a range of from about 0.8 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) toabout 4.7 g/cm³, the simulated explosive material configured to producean output signal consistent with the presence of the explosive materialwhen scanned in an X-ray scanner, the three or more inert componentsincluding one or more of sugar, baking soda, corn starch, or calciumchloride.
 4. The simulated IED Circuit Kit of claim 1, wherein theexplosive simulant includes one of: a mixture of brown sugar and one ormore of corn syrup, baking soda, water, and oil; a mixture of bakingsoda and one or more of corn syrup, corn starch, water, oil, andparaffin wax; a mixture of confectioner sugar and one or more of cornstarch and corn syrup; a mixture of, corn starch, baking soda, water,and oil; a mixture of glycerin, corn starch, alumina, and hydrogenperoxide; and a mixture of, corn starch, water, and oil.
 5. Thesimulated IED Circuit Kit of claim 1, wherein the explosive simulantincludes one of brown sugar and cane sugar.
 6. The simulated IED CircuitKit of claim 1, wherein the explosive simulant includes one of blacksand and charcoal.
 7. The simulated IED Circuit Kit of claim 1, whereinthe explosive simulant comprises two or more inert components and havinga density substantially similar to a plastic explosive, the density ofthe simulated explosive material being within a range of from about 1.3grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) to about 1.72 g/cm³, the simulatedexplosive material configured to produce an output signal consistentwith the presence of the plastic explosive when scanned in an X-rayscanner, the two or more inert components selected from among thecomponents of one of the groups consisting of: baking soda and cornstarch; baking soda and paraffin wax; sugar and corn syrup; corn starch,baking soda, and glycerin; or alumina and hydrogen peroxide.
 8. Thesimulated IED Circuit Kit of claim 1, further comprising an armingswitch in electrical communication between the power source and thesimulated blasting cap.
 9. The simulated IED Circuit Kit of claim 1,further comprising an indicator configured to illuminate responsive toan action being taken that would have resulted in the explosivesimulant, had it been real, being detonated.
 10. The simulated IEDCircuit Kit of claim 9, wherein the indicator is configured toilluminate upon a charge being sent to the simulated blasting cap.
 11. Asimulated IED Circuit Kit comprising: a simulated pipe bomb mounted on asubstrate board; a trigger switch mounted on the substrate board;electrical wiring extending between the simulated pipe bomb and thetrigger switch; and a power source mounted on the substrate board and inelectrical communication with the trigger switch.
 12. The simulated IEDCircuit Kit of claim 11, wherein the simulated pipe bomb includes awindow and an indicator light viewable through the window, the indicatorlight configured to illuminate responsive to an action being taken thatwould have resulted in the simulated pipe bomb, had it been real, beingdetonated.
 13. A Threat Screening Kit comprising: a simulated blastingcap including an explosive simulant; a power source; and a triggermechanism in electrical communication between the simulated blasting capand the power source.
 14. The Threat Screening Kit of claim 13, whereinthe simulated blasting cap includes a metal sleeve disposed within atube.
 15. The Threat Screening Kit of claim 13, wherein the simulatedblasting cap includes a lead tube disposed within a tube.
 16. The ThreatScreening Kit of claim 13, wherein the trigger mechanism includes one ormore of a mousetrap switch, a clothes pin switch, a toggle switch, awireless doorbell receiver, a vibration switch, a reed switch, a cellphone dummy, a two-way radio, a cordless telephone, a passive infraredreceiver, a pair of saw blades, a pressure activated micro switch, atilt switch, a mercury switch, a digital clock, a mechanical clock, akitchen timer, a servo motor, a temperature switch, a photo cell, and awire loop switch.
 17. The Threat Screening Kit of claim 16, furthercomprising a fastener coupled to the trigger mechanism configured tofacilitate attaching the trigger mechanism to a substrate board of asimulated IED Circuit Kit.
 18. The Threat Screening Kit of claim 13,further comprising an electrical wire connecting the trigger mechanismto the simulated blasting cap and an electrical wire connecting thepower source to the trigger mechanism.
 19. The Threat Screening Kit ofclaim 13, disposed within one of a mailing envelope, a padded envelope,a mailing tube, and a shipping box.
 20. The Threat Screening Kit ofclaim 19, wherein the trigger switch is configured to activate uponopening of the one of the mailing envelope, padded envelope, mailingtube, and shipping box.
 21. The Threat Screening Kit of claim 13,disposed within a greeting card.